I found myself provoking yet another discussion about age today… I don’t mean to, it is just a topic that is forever on my mind. Where do I fit into the broad scheme of life? Am I too young (or too old) to accomplish glorious things in the name of Christ? How do I relate to children, adults, the elderly? Will I ever find my place?

Listening to a radio interview with Steven Curtis Chapman, I couldn’t help but think about how his little girl’s life has impacted the world. It reminds me of the loss some dear friends still deal with… giving up their 3 year old to Jesus just a few years ago. Heather would have been a little older than Maria Sue, and I bet she would have been as vibrant. I prayed for that child since her cancer was diagnosed two years before God called her home… her home-going changed my life forever.

We aren’t promised the days or years we are given. Why does age so much if God transcends time? Sure, it measures relative ’stages’ of life… but nothing is guaranteed to go according to a ‘timeline’. I have many brilliant friends who are finally pursuing their college degree. I have many co-workers who are awaiting their first child or even their first love. I know many elderly people who are young at heart and even some young adults who feel about 50. Age is just a number. As a wise co-worker said today “People are like Peanuts. While your shell may wither, your nut will always stay the same.”

Think about it… and keep your mind out of the gutter.